5 Best Remanufactured Brake Calipers – Upgrade Your Vehicle!
The brake is an essential part of the car stopping system. But this system is usually composed of many parts, including the disc, the pads, and the caliper.
In this article, we’re to talk about the latter: the calipers. But not any type, but the best remanufactured brake calipers that you will find out there.
This component has the purpose of pushing the brake pads towards the disc. When this happens, the car stops. Without the caliper, then, no vehicle would be able to stop.
If you want to learn more about how to pick the right caliper and what these remanufactured options offer – then come further and find out!
Quick Answer! Remanufactured Brake Calipers
An Overview of Remanufactured Brake Calipers and Their Benefits
Remanufactured brake calipers are brake calipers that have been dismantled, cleaned, and repaired by a manufacturer or third-party facility. They are then tested to ensure that they meet the same standards as a brand new brake caliper. There are several benefits to choosing remanufactured brake calipers:
Cost: Remanufactured brake calipers are typically less expensive than brand new calipers.
Quality: Remanufactured brake calipers are required to meet the same standards as new calipers, so you can trust that you are getting a high-quality product.
Environmental impact: Choosing remanufactured brake calipers reduces waste and helps to conserve natural resources, as it reduces the demand for new calipers to be produced.
Availability: It may be easier to find a remanufactured brake caliper for an older or less common vehicle model, as there may not be as much demand for new calipers for those models.
Overall, remanufactured brake calipers can be a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly alternative to purchasing new calipers.
Our Top Picks Remanufactured Brake Calipers
Not many people tend to consider remanufactured models worth their money. But for us, they are. We chose 5 of the highest-quality options out there so you could find out why we think so:
The first model is the 18FR745 Professional from ACDelco. This is a front passenger side option that handles several years of use and offers superb responsiveness.What stands out at first glance is an extra-resilient construction. It comes with cast-iron and aluminum, which ensures exceptional durability and resistance.
This goes well with its responsive & reliable braking performance. You won’t have to worry about it breaking or sliding off its place when you’re braking – even in the harshest of situations. The design is also ideal for customization, as it comes with no pads or any additional feature to consider. This also helps when mounting – so you won’t have to put any stress on the brake, or eventually spend hours in the process.
Some of its components boast Ethylene rubber, which ensures total resistance against weather conditions. And still, it boasts all the quality quirks that ACDelco offers, from excellent price to high-end design that doesn’t disappoint anyone.
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If we had to pick the best-remanufactured brake calipers, we wouldn’t think twice before going into the Raybestos FRC10185. What sets this model apart from its competition is the ultimate resilience they offer. It boasts a premium quality friction-ready build that ensures outstanding results whenever you use it. This also boosts its first-time use – so you can be sure it will never disappoint.
Another interesting part is the high-temperature lubricant it comes with. You will never experience the caliper corroding, rusting, or overheating more than necessary. And with the pressure testing they go through, you can be sure it will never leak, break, or stop working while using.
Apart from that, it comes with all the necessary installation hardware. You don’t have to waste any time or money when mounting. In short, you will get the best braking performance, excellent durability, and decent resistance to common problems. And that’s why this is such a great option.
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Few people know about it, but Cardone is easily one of the best remanufactured brake caliper makers out there. The 18-B4776 Domestic Caliper is an excellent example of that. It comes with everything a high-end caliper offers but for a way more affordable cost. Adding the EPDM rubber seal, this caliper never fails, especially with the copper washers for extra durability.
You also get bleeder screws, ensuring excellent bleeding and positive seal performance. This pairs up well with the phenolic pistons that handle tons of heat consistently. They will also stand against rusting, boasting a unique rust inhibitor that keeps corrosion at bay.
Lastly, you can expect them to be a piece of cake to install. You will get all the necessary installation hardware to mount them up without wasting a single dime or minute of your time.
If you’re a heavy user wanting something ultra-reliable, this Cardone caliper will look like a gem.
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For those who want high-end remanufactured calipers, there won’t be any better choice than the Raybestos FRC-11507. What makes this model so unique is the superb coating that ensures exceptional durability. But it is not the coating alone that works so well, but the high-temperature synthetic lubricant, a unique add-on that provides superior resistance in the caliper.
The piece is still ultra-easy to install and comes ready to be used. It is also friction-ready, which prevents you from wasting time choosing the right brake pads or other parts. Furthermore, the caliper is tested against leaks and troubles when used. You can enjoy this caliper for several years without problems and won’t have to worry about it. If you want outstanding results in every way, you’ll be happy to pick the Raybestos FRC11507.
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If a brand makes high-quality remanufactured brake calipers that are always worth considering – then that’s ACDelco. You won't find anything to complain about this caliper – starting from the cast-iron and aluminum build that preventsrust. And with the EPDM rubber components, you can be sure there will never be any corrosion, heat issue, or even leakage when using.
Also, you can add up the wear-resistant bleeder screws and copper sealing washers. They allow easy installation but also provide outstanding durability. You won’t have to worry about the piece loosening up or falling at any time.
Lastly, you can be sure it will perform amazingly well with its manufacturing testing process. Despite being remanufactured, it performs better than many new models out there. It is durable, reliable, easy to install, and a great performer. This caliper will make your brake feel like new.
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Best Remanufactured Brake Calipers Buying Guide
So, do you want the best remanufactured calipers out there? Then you’ll have to pick precisely what you need. Here’s a guide of factors to consider:
Best Remanufactured Brake Calipers
Build & Components
- Remanufactured parts are often overlooked because they tend to be less durable. But that’s not true at all.
- A remanufactured brake caliper, for example, may have a way better build and components than a new one. But not all fit this description.
- You’ll have to look for those remanufactured options with unique builds that set them apart from the competition. Rubber, copper, cast iron, and aluminum are essential for a long-lasting build.
Installation & Fit
Make sure the calipers you are considering are compatible with your vehicle. You'll need to know your car's make, model, and year to ensure you get the right calipers.
Some brake calipers are returned to the manufacturing factory because they weren’t the right fit for the buyers.
So, you’ll want to pick the right option for your car to prevent this. But even more important than that is to get something easy to install. Maybe the returned calipers were the right fit, but users didn’t find how to install them. For that, make sure they are easy to mount and have all the necessary hardware.
Warranty
Check to see if the calipers come with a warranty. This can give you added peace of mind and protection in case anything goes wrong with the calipers.
Quality
Look for remanufactured calipers from reputable companies that use high-quality parts and thoroughly test their products. It's worth spending a little extra for a higher quality product that will last longer and perform better.
Price
As with any purchase, it's important to compare prices from different sellers to ensure you are getting a good deal. Just be sure to balance price with quality – the cheapest option may not always be the best value.
Performance
Finally, get remanufactured calipers that perform well enough. You will know this depending on the testing that the part was put through before it was put in the market again. Make sure every part you get was tested against leaks and reliability issues. You’ll get a magnificent piece that performs well enough if it was.
Remanufactured brake calipers can be an excellent option for those looking to save money on their brake repair. Just be sure to research and choose a reputable company with a good record of producing high-quality products. With the right calipers, you can have peace of mind knowing your vehicle's braking system is in good working order.
Considerations While Choosing the Correct Remanufactured Brake Calipers
While the previous factors may give you an idea of what to look for, there are a few additional points to consider:
Remanufacturing Guide
Here is a basic guide to remanufacturing brake calipers:
Begin by removing the brake caliper from the vehicle. This typically involves removing the wheels and then using a wrench or socket set to loosen the bolts that hold the caliper in place.
Once the caliper is removed, use a C-clamp to compress the pistons back into the caliper housing. This will make it easier to work on the caliper and will also prevent brake fluid from leaking out.
Next, use a brake caliper piston tool to remove the old pistons from the caliper housing. If the pistons are stuck, you may need to use penetrating oil to loosen them.
Clean the caliper housing thoroughly with brake cleaner. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
Once the caliper housing is clean, you can install the new pistons. Be sure to lubricate the pistons with brake caliper grease to ensure that they move smoothly.
Reassemble the caliper by replacing the brake pads and reattaching the caliper to the vehicle. Be sure to use new brake pad clips if the old ones are damaged or worn.
Once the caliper is reassembled, you will need to bleed the brake system to remove any air that may have entered the lines during the repair process. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for bleeding the brakes on your specific vehicle.
With a little time and patience, you should be able to remanufacture your brake calipers successfully. Just be sure to follow all safety precautions and wear protective gear when working on your vehicle.
Watch Best Remanufactured Brake Calipers
Remanufactured brake calipers FAQ!
Don’t rush out to buy just any caliper before you read these questions. They will give you an even better idea of what you’re getting:
Are remanufactured brake calipers as good as new ones?
Yes, and no. It all depends. But often, a remanufactured model can handle just as much or even more time of use than a new one. When it comes to remanufactured brake calipers vs. new, it also depends heavily on the vehicle. For sports vehicle, it is always better to get new ones.
How often should I change my brake calipers?
Also, it all depends. But we often recommend replacing old calipers once they start falling, making noises, or not responding fast enough when braking.
Will a remanufactured brake caliper last long?
Yes, they can last just as much or even more than a new model. As remanufactured calipers, they often go through quality tests twice than new ones.
Do remanufactured brake calipers come with a warranty?
No. That’s the only drawback of these calipers: they do not offer any warranty. If you’re lucky, you may get a few months or even a year of warranty – but that’s not common.
What are the best brake caliper brands out there?
Brands like ACDelco, Raybestos, and Cardone are always worth the investment. But don’t overlook others like remanufactured Brembo calipers and similar ones. They’re also amazing.
Final Words & Recommendations
Every model in this article is worth considering. But you may still find a few of them better than others. The best remanufactured brake calipers are the Raybestos FRC11507 Professional, which works wonders for its unique build & design. And the ACDelco 18FR745 Professional Disc Brake Caliper, a simple but super compatible & resilient option.
There are still many other options, so choose wisely, and you won’t have anything to complain about.
